Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Veterinary Services in Altoona PA
Pleasant Valley Animal Hospital has been the oldest family-owned and operated veterinary clinic in Altoona since 1971. Founded by Dr. Denny Stachmus, our clinic has evolved from a modest practice to a comprehensive facility offering wellness exams, surgical procedures, and emergency care. We combine over five decades of collective veterinary experience with a commitment to compassionate care for every pet. Our team includes second-generation veterinarian Dr. Matt Stachmus and business manager Andrew Stachmus, who continue the family tradition of personalized service. We utilize modern diagnostic tools including in-house laboratory testing, radiography, and laser therapy while maintaining a focus on preventive medicine.

Our staff provides tailored treatment plans for chronic conditions, critical care hospitalization, and specialty consultations with board-certified specialists. We maintain strict quality standards through continuous professional development and collaboration with local veterinary pathologists. As a full-service animal hospital, we offer prescription diets, pharmacy services, and pain management solutions. Our extended evening hours one day per week accommodate busy pet owners. The Stachmus family legacy continues to guide our practice philosophy of treating every patient as part of our extended family.
Services
Wellness Exams Vaccinations Surgical Procedures Dentistry Emergency Care Lab Testing Prescription Diets Laser Therapy Glaucoma Testing IV Therapy
Details
  • Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
  • Family-owned veterinary practice since 1971 with three generations of veterinary experience
  • Comprehensive diagnostic capabilities including in-house lab and advanced imaging
  • Emergency services available for established clients after regular business hours
  • Full-service facility offering wellness, surgery, and critical care hospitalization
  • Experienced team includes specialists in dentistry, oncology, and internal medicine
What people say
Loving and caring staff Saved my pet Genuine concern for animals Experienced professionals Family-oriented approach
Services
Wellness Exams
Comprehensive physical examinations recommended annually for preventive care. Our 30-minute appointments include vaccination reviews, parasite control, and health risk assessments. Early detection of potential issues through thorough diagnostic evaluations.
Surgical Procedures
Routine and complex surgeries performed with local and general anesthesia. Specialized dental procedures scheduled three days weekly. Pre-anesthetic blood testing ensures patient safety during spays, neuters, and emergency surgeries.
Emergency Care
After-hours emergency services available for established clients until 9 PM. Critical cases receive immediate evaluation with separate emergency fees applied for after-hours care. Stabilization and referral options provided for complex cases.
Diagnostic Testing
In-house laboratories process blood chemistries, urinalysis, and parasite exams. Pathology specimens analyzed locally by veterinary specialists. Rapid testing available for tick-borne diseases and infectious agents.
Laser Therapy
Advanced pain management technique using therapeutic lasers for inflammation reduction. Accelerates healing post-surgery and treats chronic conditions like arthritis. Non-invasive option for improving mobility in senior pets.
People
Dr. Matt Stachmus
Veterinarian
Second-generation veterinarian with experience in day practice, shelter medicine, and international development. Specializes in internal medicine and emergency care. Graduated from VA-MD Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 2003.
Andrew Stachmus
Business Manager
Oversees clinic operations since 2013. Brings business expertise from a Penn State degree in Art History with business minor. Third-generation family member maintaining practice legacy.
Dr. Denny Stachmus
Founder
Established clinic in 1971 after graduating from University of Illinois School of Veterinary Medicine. Practiced over 40 years before transitioning to family leadership. Laid foundation for multi-generational veterinary practice.
Questions
What emergency services do you offer?
Emergency care available for established clients until 9 PM with separate after-hours fees. Critical cases may be referred to specialists.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Routine examinations and sick visits require advance scheduling through our office during regular business hours.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, MasterCard, Visa, and Discover for all veterinary services and pet products.
How long has the clinic been operating?
Pleasant Valley Animal Hospital has provided veterinary care in Altoona since 1971.
Are prescription diets available?
We stock veterinary diets from Hills, Purina, and Royal Canin for specific nutritional requirements.
Do you offer laser therapy?
Therapeutic laser treatments are available for pain management and accelerated healing of injuries.
Reviews (1)
Ron Beasom
Jan 31, 2021 Report
This place is fantastic great people great service they truly love your animals when you bring them in I highly recommend them